A new $30 million factory specialising in the production of sanitary pads, hygiene papers, bar soaps, and packaging is nearing completion in the Muhanga District Industrial Park. This initiative is set to address the high cost of sanitary pads, which has been a barrier for many girls and women, particularly in rural areas. For those unable to afford commercial pads, reusable cloth alternatives have often been the only option, despite the associated risks of infections. ALSO READ: Period poverty: Activists on improving access to menstrual hygiene services and products The local production of sanitary pads is thus seen as a significant step forward in promoting menstrual health and hygiene. Boosting Muhanga’s industrial growth “The new factory will contribute to the district's development. Basil Industries Ltd, the company behind this investment, aims to create jobs, pay taxes, and promote locally made products. It will also enhance the development of Muhanga Industrial Park, which currently hosts four operational factories, with more under construction,” said Jacqueline Kayitare, the Mayor of Muhanga District. The Muhanga District Industrial Park spans 63 hectares and has attracted investments totaling over $100 million. Seven companies have already expressed interest in setting up operations in the park. ALSO READ: How Rwanda can reduce the growing trade deficit Made-in-Rwanda initiative Irene Basil, a Rwandan living in the USA, is the visionary behind the $30 million factory. Located on a two-hectare plot in her home district, construction began two years ago. The factory has already commenced the production of sanitary pads and toilet paper, while bar soap and packaging production are set to begin within two months as final construction phases wrap up. “Construction is 99 percent complete, and machinery for bar soap and packaging is being installed,” Irene Basil confirmed. The factory is expected to create over 200 jobs and boasts an impressive production capacity: 200,000 sanitary pads per eight-hour shift and up to 500,000 pads with 24-hour operations. Additionally, it can produce 24,000 tonnes of soap daily. Plans are also in place to export sanitary pads to neighboring countries. ALSO READ: Why Rwanda's trade deficit increased in 2022 “As members of the Rwandan diaspora, we should take actions that contribute to the country's economic growth. Supporting the Made-in-Rwanda initiative is one way to boost locally made goods,” Irene added. Reducing imports and lowering costs The investment is expected to reduce Rwanda’s dependence on imported sanitary pads, which currently come mainly from Uganda, India, and China. According to Alexis Kabayiza, the Chief Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Rwanda imported sanitary pads worth $4.2million in 2018, $5.2 million in 2019, $3.6 million in 2020, and $2.2 million in 2021 saying the sanitary pad production could narrow this import gap. ALSO READ: Breaking the silence: Menstrual health and hygiene as a catalyst for gender equality Will prices become affordable? Consumers hope that local production will bring down the cost of sanitary pads. Presently, a pack of ten pads sells for about Rwf 1,000, a price deemed unaffordable by many activists and consumers. Although the government removed the 18 percent value-added tax (VAT) on sanitary pads, prices have remained high. The factory’s investors have pledged to offer their sanitary pads at a reduced price of Rwf 650 once distribution begins. However, some stakeholders, like Olive Uwiringiyimana, a teacher in Musanze District, believe prices need to be even lower, particularly in rural areas, suggesting Rwf 300 as an ideal price point. ALSO READ: Call for efforts to break menstrual hygiene taboos Such affordability could complement existing initiatives, such as safe rooms in schools, where girls are provided with free pads and private spaces to change. These programs also offer vital information on sexual and reproductive health. Addressing period poverty High pad costs have been linked to school absenteeism among girls from low-income families, as many miss classes or drop out entirely due to menstrual challenges. Local production and reduced prices could help alleviate these issues, promoting better education outcomes and gender equality. As the factory nears full operational capacity, it promises not only economic benefits but also a meaningful impact on menstrual hygiene and the overall well-being of women and girls in Rwanda and beyond.
